How to dispose of Beauty Products in an Eco-Friendly way?
A friend of mine is going through a clean-out and recently asked me this exact question. Here’s my step-by-step guide to mindfully dispose of unwanted beauty products:
1. Give Away
If any of the products are still safe (not expired) your first port of call is to see if any friends / family colleagues want them. I once took a box of beauty products to work and they had all found a new home by the end of the day
2. Donate
For new or 'gently used' products or items that still have life in them, consider donating them to a womens shelter - they are always on the lookout for hygiene/beauty products.
3. Remove the contents
If donating or giving away is not an option then the next step is to remove the contents of any containers or tubes. Unless the products are organic and grey water safe they shouldn’t get washed down the drain - Some beauty products are technically considered hazardous waste. Wipe them out with toilet paper and put the contents in the rubbish - they will need to go to landfill. Tip: Cut tubes in half to remove any contents.
4. Repurpose
Depending on the type of containers, consider repurposing them around the house for storage/travel.
5. Return for Reward
There is an increasing trend in companies running take-back programs in exchange for rewards. Companies such as Jurlique, L’Occitane and Flora and Fauna have partnered with Terracycle to provide recycling programs so that their empty products and packaging can be recycled. Lush also runs a 5-pot return program. The best part, in addition to preventing your empties going to landfill, you also receive a thank you from the company in the form of a discount or store credits. Win-Win!
6. Recycle
It may be possible to recycle items in your curb-side recycling program, however you would need to check with your local council. You can also recycle directly with Terracycle - As there is a cost involved you may want to look at organising a beauty spring-clean with friends or colleagues so the expense can be split.
7. Refuse
Should you still have items in your possession after steps 1 through 6, then unfortunately they will need to go to landfill.
8. ReTHINK
Possibly one of the most important of all steps. Now that you have a blank, beauty product canvas, this is a great opportunity to mindfully look at your beauty routine and the products needed. You have the power to reward ethical companies who are focussed on sustainability by offering them your patronage. For each beauty purchase you make in the future, ask yourself, what will happen to the packaging when it is finished? And do you want to take on that responsibility? Remember, it’s not beautiful if it makes the planet ugly.
